The Blackbird Academy Catalog, 2022-2023 Edition

2022 – 2023 CATALOG

WELCOME TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
a new standard of excellence in audio education
Your passion for audio has led you to
The Blackbird Academy – a school
that sets a new standard of excellence
in audio education. Throughout this
catalog, you will view rich content that
tells the Blackbird story and how our
unique approach is unparalleled in the
industry. Once you have gone
through the material, we encourage
you to call or email us with any
questions and to reserve your seat in
an upcoming class!

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to The Blackbird Academy .................3
Foreword, Mutt Lange ........................................5
Message from John McBride, Founder..............9
The Blackbird Academy Difference ..................10
FACILITIES
Campus Information ........................................ 12
Gear & Studios.............................................14-15
Studios ..............................................................14
Microphone Locker ...........................................14
Recording Laboratory .......................................14
Outboard Gear..................................................15
Amplifiers ..........................................................15
Drums................................................................15
FACULTY & STAFF
John McBride, Founder/President....................16
Carma DiCianni, Director of Student
Operations and Marketing................................16
Blair Gallimore, Career Services Manager........16
Marian Matthis, Digital Marketing Director ......16
Mark Rubel, Director of Education ...................18
Jeremy Cottrell, Senior Studio Instructor .........18
Ernesto Olvera-LaPier, Studio Instructor...........18
Lucas Glenney-Tegtmeier, Studio Instructor.....18
Scott Brewer, Director of Live Sound................18
Rich Flora, Live Sound Instructor ......................18
CONTACT US
Call: 615-385-2423
Fax: 615-251-8787
Email: info@theblackbirdacademy.com
ADMISSIONS
Admission Requirements ..................................20
Start Dates.........................................................20
Program Cost ....................................................20
Payment Options ..............................................20
Refund Policy ....................................................20
Placement Assistance .......................................21
Student Housing ...............................................21
PROGRAMS
Studio Engineering Program .......................24-26
Live Engineering Program ...........................27-29
TESTIMONIALS
What the Experts Say ..................................22-23
Keith Urban ..................................................22
Vance Powell................................................22
Patrick Carney ..............................................22
Don Was.......................................................23
Sheryl Crow..................................................23
Tim McGraw.................................................23
Marc Roberge ..............................................23
What the Students Say......................................30
WEBSITE
www.theblackbirdacademy.com
Apply online 24 hours per day at
www.theblackbirdacademy.com/apply-online
4

[ FOREWORD ]
MUSIC
FIRST
The music business is exactly that.
Music first and then the business of star
making, marketing and more.
The music side comprises writing, arranging,
recording and mixing of the songs. The Blackbird
Academy gives its students a natural fusion of
new recording technology and the old and
eternal recording techniques that have been
used over the last 50+ years.
The Blackbird Academy can give any individual
a great kickstart into learning about and
understanding these disciplines. It can also
provide a great foundation from which to
springboard one’s natural talent.
The Blackbird Academy will be a very exciting
and life-changing experience for any aspiring
artist, producer or engineer. If I was starting all
over again, this is exactly where you would find
me – a great place to learn and to keep one’s
creativity intact.
Blackbird Studio is the finest recording studio
on Planet Earth. What better place could there
be to learn?
– Robert John “Mutt” Lange,
producer, songwriter
5

WHAT MAKES THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY DIFFERENT?
6

TOP
INSTRUCTORS
BEST
GEAR
MORE
HANDS ON

8

[ INTRODUCTION ]
A MESSAGE FROM JOHN MCBRIDE
FOUNDER, THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
A number of years ago, I took three
steps back and took a long, hard look
at my life. God and family are at the
center of my life, as I’m sure they are for
many people. After that, I am fortunate
because I have been making a living in
the music business for a long time, and
frankly, any day I can make a living in
the music business is a great day!
So, here I am with an incredible wife
(Martina McBride), an incredible studio
(Blackbird Studio), and a long list of
friends who work in every area of the
business. I have great friends at record
labels, management companies,
booking agencies, live production
companies, studios, and publishing
companies. So, how do I do something
with my life that involves all of this and
benefits the world, too?
The older I get, the more important
mentoring has become for me.
Teaching is an honorable and great
occupation that is important to the
future of our world. There is a bit of a
teacher in my DNA as my dad taught
for years and is now retired. This is
where the idea of The Blackbird
Academy originated. I have had
teachers who made a huge difference
in my life. I would love to have the
same positive effect on as many
students’ lives as possible.
Thanks to the mentors who shared
their knowledge and experience with
me, I have been able to work on many
projects in the recording studio in a
very short time. Music by a variety of
artists from Kesha to Dave Stewart to
Martina has my stamp and my name on
it – something of which I am very
proud. I would like to provide those
same mentoring opportunities to any
student who signs up for The Blackbird
Academy so they may master these
skills in the same way that I learned.
We are passionate and driven in our
goals to improve the music business
and change the world, and we can do
that by giving an outstanding
education to our students.
If you have any questions, do not
hesitate to contact us. We are here to
make a difference. I believe students
can figure out if this career is for them
by taking this course. It will not take
four years of your life, and you will not
have huge debt to deal with upon
graduation. If this is your chosen
profession, let us get you on your way
to making a great living right away!
Thanks, and I look forward to hearing
from you.
– John McBride
9

WHAT MAKES
THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
DIFFERENT?
The current state of audio
education often puts students at a
disadvantage upon graduation by
leaving them with below average
skills, not enough hands-on
experience, and an in-complete
education. There is often a high level
of debt, which can limit a graduate’s
ability to build a successful career.
The Blackbird Academy offers a
new model in education. Our
program gives students access to
true working professionals and a
hands-on experience using a world
class collection of gear – all in a
facility designed for one purpose:
making excellent music.
The Blackbird Academy is a
mentor-based program where
students are taught by a unique cast
of professional instructors and awardwinning
guest lecturers.
Our campus is built on the
foundation of Blackbird Studio, the
Nashville home to a community of
engineers, producers, musicians and
technical staff who over the years
have taken the art of audio recording
to new highs.
The principles and beliefs that
guide the Academy’s program are
simple: Challenge and educate
students by presenting them with
real life scenarios an engineer would
encounter on a regular basis. We
believe training should take place in
spaces that are not empty, cold
classrooms but professionallydesigned
studios and labs where
engineers can hone their craft.
Students graduate with a high
degree of both practical and
theoretical knowledge of the trade,
which gives them the best
opportunity to establish and build
their careers. Our goal is to provide
the greatest education, in the
shortest amount of time for the
least amount possible.
Realize your potential by taking
part in The Blackbird Academy
experience!
10

5:1
STUDENT/STUDIO
RATIO
ULTIMATE
LEARNING
EXPERIENCE

CAMPUS INFORMATION
The Blackbird Academy is located in
Berry Hill, Tennessee, home to more
than 40 recording studios and just
minutes from downtown Nashville.
Known worldwide as Music City – the
capital of country music – Nashville has
always been so much more. It’s an
entertainment center and a music
production hub for Rock, Gospel,
Christian, Americana, Pop, Rap, R&B
– all styles of music.
The Blackbird Academy is part of
Blackbird Studio, founded in 2002 and
today one of the most outstanding
recording destinations in the world.
The rooms, consoles, microphones,
outboard gear and lounges were chosen
around a central concept: to
provide the best audio production facilities
for top musicians, producers and
engineers. This passion for great audio
quickly made Blackbird the studio of
choice for artists ranging from Beck to
Kenny Chesney, Sheryl Crow, Tim
McGraw, Faith Hill, Kings of Leon, Kid
Rock, The White Stripes and Keith
Urban, just to name a few.
The Blackbird Academy carries on this
tradition by repurposing three of the
nine studios solely for education. In
addition, a purpose-built Recording
Laboratory adds the perfect space for
critical listening and teaching of key
concepts, skills and techniques. The
Recording Laboratory is a studio itself,
with an API 1608 console, Pro Tools
HD, outboard gear, and live
video/audio from the other studios.
12

NINE
STUDIOS
1400
MICS
50 AMPS
70 GUITARS

GEAR & STUDIOS
The Blackbird Academy’s microphones, consoles, outboard gear and recording spaces are
second to none. Students are trained on the same equipment used by top producers, musicians
and recording artists who have created countless award-winning records at Blackbird Studio.
STUDIOS
The Blackbird Academy’s Studio A
features 11 different recording areas
including a variable Tom Hidley-designed
chamber with an adjustable ceiling to
customize reverb time. The control room
features a 72-input Neve 8078, a six card
Pro Tools HD system, and ATC 300s as
main monitors. In the racks are many
processors from Blackbird’s famous
outboard gear collection.
The Blackbird Academy’s Studio B
comes equipped with a 48-channel API
Legacy Plus console with Flying Fader
automation, a six card Pro Tools HD
system and ATC 300s as main monitors.
The studio’s small live chamber is also
perfect for vocal or instrumental
overdubs. In the racks are many coveted
processors from Blackbird’s famous
outboard gear collection.
The Blackbird Academy’s Studio I is a
fully digital stuido featuring a revolving
range of gear from Blackbird’s impressive
collection. Students have access to
preamps, processors and reverbs from a
large list of manufacturers giving
instructors and students the ability to mix
and match gear for each session.
MICROPHONE LOCKER
The Blackbird Academy’s microphone
locker has more than 1,400 microphones
on hand, including U47s, Telefunken 251s
and Elektroakustic RFTs, AKG C12s,
Neumann U67s, M50s, M49s, M269s,
classic small diaphragm tube mics and
many more. Students will experience ears
on shootouts, best practices for setup,
and tips on miking from instructors,
experienced staff and award-winning
guest lecturers. Access to the single best
collection of microphones in the world is
one of the things that makes The
Blackbird Academy education so unique.
RECORDING LABORATORY
The Blackbird Academy’s Recording
Laboratory accommodates 30 students
and uses three large video screens and
high-definition cameras for an
unparalleled learning experience. The lab
is also a fully-equipped recording studio
featuring high-quality audio playback, an
API 1608 console, a Pro Tools HD system,
and outboard gear from Blackbird’s
extensive collection.
Each student will be seated at a station
equipped with a hybrid interface/console,
a computer with video display and
headphones for monitoring and critical
listening. Each station will have Pro Tools
and other software used for recording
and mixing. The room is networked,
meaning each student will be able to
14

record the same audio being fed to the
instructor’s rig from the isolation booths
and other locations in the complex.
OUTBOARD GEAR
Outboard compressors, EQs, reverbs,
effects processors and preamps are the
tools that take any mix, overdub or
tracking session to the next level.
Blackbird’s collection is one of the best in
the world, featuring processors from over
90 companies and some historical gear
not often found under one roof. The
selection includes coveted units both old
and new from Telefunken, EMI, Fairchild,
Shadow Hill, Helios, Decca, Pye, RCA,
Chandler Limited, Tube-Tech, UREI, AMS,
Inward Connections and much, much
more.
Students will have access to this
fabulous collection in class and during
sessions where instructors will guide them
through A/B listening tests, best
practices, advanced usage tips and more.
This collection of outboard gear is
another reason The Blackbird Academy
education is like none other.
AMPLIFIERS
The production and learning environment
at The Blackbird Academy goes well
beyond studio recording, overdubbing
and mixing. All productions begin with
musicians, and our instrument, amplifier
and drum collections are unequaled.
Students will be taught the importance of
choosing and setting up a guitar and amplifier
before the Record button is
pushed; if the source is not right, no microphone,
console or good intention will
be able to fix it later. Blackbird’s amplifier
collection includes more than 50 vintage
and new units from Fender, Marshall,
Gibson, Matchless, Vox, Ampeg, Watkins,
Mesa Boogie, Dumble and many more.
DRUMS
Blackbird’s drum collection provides a
strong pulse with more than 48 vintage
kits and 50 vintage snares. Top Nashville
drum techs will take students through the
techniques they use to make kits ready for
a high-quality recording. Manufacturers
include Gretsch, Craviotto, Camco,
Slingerland, Dunnett, Ludwig, Leedy,
Rogers, Sonor, WFL, Yamaha and more.
The studio’s
microphone
collection is
the most
extensive
private
collection
in the world.
15

LEARN FROM THE INDUSTRY’S LEADERS
The Blackbird Academy features a highly skilled, professional teaching staff including
a cast of award-winning industry guest lecturers who regularly visit the campus.
JOHN MCBRIDE
FOUNDER/PRESIDENT/INSTITUTIONAL
DIRECTOR
John McBride has had a 30+ year
career in live sound, tour management,
and studio recording. He started a live
sound company called MD Systems
which was purchased by Clair Global in
1997, and John remains part of the Clair
Global management team. He and his
wife Martina, a multi-platinum selling
music artist, built Blackbird Studio into
one of the greatest recording studios on
the planet. His passion for audio and the
will to mentor are paramount in his life.
John and Martina’s love of music has
resulted in The Blackbird Academy’s
launch in 2013.
CARMA DICIANNI
DIRECTOR OF STUDENT OPERATIONS
AND MARKETING
Carma DiCianni is responsible for
strategically building, executing, and
maintaining our student/alumni programs
and corporate partnerships; oversees the
creation/implementation of communication
and marketing materials for the
school; and is financially responsible for
the academy.
Carma has been in the education and
music industries for over 20 years working
with recording studios, tour management,
and as a professional event/concert
photographer. Carma has management
experience with multiple artists and bands
including Bon Jovi, Stone Temple Pilots,
Ted Nugent, Alice Cooper, Marty Stuart,
Travis Tritt, and more. Carma has degrees
in Education, Audio Engineering and
Entertainment Business.
BLAIR GALLIMORE
CAREER SERVICES AND ACCOUNT
MANAGER
Blair Gallimore is the Career Services &
Account Manager for The Blackbird
Academy, as well as the Accounts
Receivables/Payables Manager for
Blackbird Studio. Blair graduated from
Belmont University in 2009 with a degree
in Music Business. During her time at
Belmont, she interned at Blackbird
Studio, and ultimately was hired as the
Receptionist/Client Services/Admin.
Assistant. She moved to Accounts
Receivables/Payables in Spring 2017.
MARIAN MATTHIS
DIGITAL MARKETING DIRECTOR
Marian manages the social media
channels and websites for The Blackbird
Academy and Blackbird Studio. Prior to
joining Blackbird, Marian was a freelance
marketing/graphic design pro and an
executive at The Tennessean newspaper
in Nashville. She holds an MBA from
Vanderbilt University.
16

FORTY
ELITE
STUDENTS
24 WEEKS
700 + HOURS
ONE
AMAZING CAREER
|| 1717

INSTRUCTORS
MARK RUBEL
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Mark has taught audio, music
technology, music business and the
history of rock to thousands of students
since 1985. He has taught at various
colleges/universities and has served as
the Audio and Recording Director at
Eastern Illinois University’s $70 million
Doudna Arts Center.
Since 1980, Mark has recorded
extensively both at his Pogo Studio in
Champaign, IL and elsewhere. His client
list includes Hum, Alison Krauss, Rascal
Flatts, Fall Out Boy, Ludacris, and more.
JEREMY COTTRELL
SENIOR INSTRUCTOR/STUDIO ENGINEER
Jeremy Cottrell has worked for
Blackbird Studio since its opening in
2002 and has been an instructor for The
Blackbird Academy since its start in
2013. His engineering credits include
Sheryl Crow, The Red Hot Chili Peppers,
Martina McBride, Keith Urban, Faith Hill,
Tim McGraw, Alison Krauss, Big & Rich
and Jars Of Clay.
ERNESTO OLVERA-LAPIER
INSTRUCTOR/STUDIO ENGINEER
Ernesto joined Blackbird in 2012 as a
runner and worked his way up to an
assistant engineering position within a
few months. Assisting in a Keith Urban
session changed Ernesto’s career forever.
Lead engineer Steve Marcantonio was
unavailable and suggested Ernesto take
the lead chair. The first song Ernesto
recorded in that session was released a
few days later as the first single from
Keith Urban‘s 2013 chart-topping album,
Fuse. That song, “A Little Bit of
Everything,” reached number one on the
country charts. “Raise ‘Em Up,” a duet
with Eric Church and the second song
Ernesto engineered in the session, also
reached number one. Since then,
Ernesto has engineered for Lady A, Cam,
Martina McBride, Mickey Guyton, Kesha,
OAR, and Snoop Dogg.
LUCAS GLENNEY-TEGTMEIER
INSTRUCTOR/STUDIO ENGINEER
Lucas Glenney-Tegtmeier is a
University of New Haven alum. After
graduation, he moved to Nashville and
became a member of the engineering
staff at Blackbird Studio.
Lucas has worked on a range of
projects for recording artists such as
Willie Nelson, Kane Brown, Thomas
Rhett, Keith Urban, Jason Isbell, JoJo,
Yelawolf, Elle King, Carrie Underwood,
Lady A, Cam, and Sasha Sloan. Lucas has
also worked as an audio technician at the
Schermerhorn Symphony Center in
Nashville where he assisted the Nashville
Symphony and their featured artists,
including Kellie Pickler, Chris Daughtry,
Branford Marsalis, Michael W Smith,
CeCe Winans.
SCOTT BREWER
DIRECTOR OF LIVE SOUND
Scott is a North Carolina native who
moved to Nashville in 2017 to teach at
Blackbird. He has been a musician for
more than twenty years and started his
career playing in bands before moving
to the other side of the console. Scott
studied at Guildford Tech where he
double-majored in Recording
Engineering and Concert Sound &
Lighting. At the time, he was freelancing
for production companies and the local
IATSE. This work led him to a gig with
Imagine Design and Productions, where
he was an audio engineer, systems
designer, and installer.
RICH FLORA
LIVE SOUND INSTRUCTOR
Rich Flora came to The Blackbird
Academy from Clair Global where he
worked both in IT and as an audio
engineer for more than 27 years. Before
joining Clair, Rich had positions in all
aspects of audio and electronics. Besides
sound engineering, Rich has worked as a
lighting director, a radio broadcast
engineer, and an A/V Tech for a top 50
law firm. He has engineered for many
bands but spent most of his time on the
road with Little Texas and Collin Ray.
18

WE CONCENTRATE ON DOING, INSTEAD OF TALKING ABOUT IT.
19

GETTING TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Students applying for admission to
The Blackbird Academy must have a
minimum of a high school diploma or
GED-equivalent. A prospective student
must submit an official copy of their high
school transcripts or GED upon completion
of their admission application.
Non-accredited schools or those not
approved by the Board of Education may
not be acceptable; please check with your
admissions representative before
paying/attending any of these courses.
Two letters of recommendation (from
an employer, instructor or audio
professional) are required, as well as two
essays of 500 words each.
An interview will be conducted either
in person or by phone upon receipt of the
admission application. The Blackbird
Academy reserves the right to request
corroborating information in addition to
the application prior to the final
determination of acceptance and/or
admission.
START DATES
The Blackbird Academy’s programs have
four starts in a calendar year, each
running six months in length.
2022-2023 Start Dates
January 10, 2022 January 9, 2023
April 11, 2022 April 10, 2023
July 11, 2022 July 10, 2023
October 3, 2022 October 2, 2023
Holidays
Students will have the following holidays
for the next two calendar years:
Spring Break: Apr 2 – 10, 2022
Summer Break: July 2 – 10, 2022
Thanksgiving: Nov 24 – 27, 2022
Winter Break: Dec 23, 2022 – Jan 8, 2023
Spring Break: Apr 1 – 9, 2023
Summer Break: Jul 1 – 9, 2023
Thanksgiving: Nov 23 – 26, 2023
Winter Break: Dec 23, 2023– Jan 7, 2024
PROGRAM COST
The cost of attendance is composed of
charges billed directly to you by The
Blackbird Academy as well as indirect
costs that go along with attending school.
The current tuition, including iPad with all
educational materials included is:
Studio Engineering Program: $23,100
Live Sound Engineering Program: $23,100
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Please contact the Admissions Dept.
regarding payment options and payment
of tuition. Cash payments and/or a
payment plan may be used to fund your
education. This option maybe used in
combination with other financial
assistance. VA Benefits Eligible.
REFUND POLICY
Refunds Due to Cancellation: Students
who are rejected by the college or cancel
the application within three (3) business
day’s of receipt of the application fee are
entitled to a 100% refund of any
fees/tuition paid. Students who have not
visited The Blackbird Academy prior to
sending in application will have three (3)
business days following their visit to
cancel and receive a 100% refund.
Under any other circumstances, the $75
application fee is retained by The
Blackbird Academy.
If a student is terminated, withdraws or
otherwise fails to complete the
program(s) and has received any form of
financial assistance while enrolled, the
financial institution will determine the
refunds (if applicable) that will be
given.The date from which the refund is
calculated is the last date that a student
attended a class. Refunds will be made
within thirty (30) days of the date The
20

Blackbird Academy determines that the
student has withdrawn. The original
source that the monies were received
dictates the entity of how the monies will
also be refunded. In the event of a
students prolonged illness, accident,
death in the family or other circumstances
that make completion of the program(s)
impossible or impractical, the school will
attempt to make a fair and reasonable
settlement.
REFUNDS DUE TO WITHDRAWAL
WEEK
% OF REFUND
(less application fee)
Before Class Begins 100%
Weeks 1 - 3 75%
Weeks 4 - 6 50%
Weeks 7 - 12 25%
Weeks 13 - 24 0%
start on their careers.
While students may hold jobs to help
support themselves while they’re in the
program, the focus once they leave
should be on finding a promising job in
the audio industry. The Career Services
Manager can help students make contact
at many studios, live sound companies,
manufacturers and more, where students
may interview once they leave the
program. To qualify, you must have met
the course’s graduation prerequisites, and
honored all predetermined financial
arrangements.
SOCIALe
GET IN TOUCH
Call: 615-385-2423
Fax: 615-251-8787
Email: info@theblackbirdacademy.com
Visit our website at:
www.theblackbirdacademy.com
Facebook: facebook.com/TheBlackbirdAcademy
Twitter: @BBArocks
Instagram: @TheBlackbirdAcademy
PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE
The Blackbird Academy is a microcosm
of the audio recording industry, and
networking with other students, teaching
staff, and guest lecturers begins
immediately upon enrolling in the
Academy.
During a student’s stay at the Academy,
students will be exposed to many expert
panels, mentoring sessions both live and
online, remote interviews, and other
resources to help students get a head
STUDENT HOUSING
The Blackbird Academy has arranged different lease options with several local
apartment complexes for incoming students. Admissions Representatives can also
assist students with a roommate list if you would like a roommate to help lower
expenses. The resource links below can also help guide you through the many
housing choices in the Nashville area.
Housing Resources:
https://www.apartments.com/nashville-tn/
https://www.apartmentfinder.com/Tennessee/Nashville-Apartments
https://www.apartmentguide.com/apartments/Tennessee/
https://www.forrent.com/find/TN/metro-Nashville/Nashville
21

22
WHAT
THE
EXPERTS
SAY
ABOUT
THE
BLACKBIRD
ACADEMY
KEITH URBAN
Recording Artist,
Songwriter, Musician
VANCE POWELL PATRICK CARNEY
Grammy-Winning
Drummer,
Recording Engineer
The Black Keys
“ “
IF YOU ARE GOING TO
IF YOU ARE
GET AN EDUCATION IN
INTERESTED IN
THIS BUSINESS, THIS IS LEARNING HOW TO
THE BEST SET OF
RECORD OR MIX LIVE
ROOMS TO BE DOING IT SOUND ... FROM SOME
IN.
OF THE BEST PEOPLE IN
”
”
“
IF YOU ARE THINKING
ABOUT GOING
ANYWHERE FOR AN
AUDIO SCHOOL, THIS IS
THE PLACE...IT’S THE
EPICENTER OF
RECORDING IN
NASHVILLE AND PEOPLE
FROM OUTSIDE
COUNTRY MUSIC ARE
ALL COMING HERE TO
RECORD AS WELL.
THE GAME, I WOULD
RECOMMEND GOING TO
THE BLACKBIRD
ACADEMY.
”

DON WAS
Grammy-Winning
Producer, Musician
“
TO BE ABLE TO LEARN
IN THAT
ENVIRONMENT…MAN,
YOU ARE GONNA HAVE
THE BEST SHOT OF AN
EDUCATION IN
RECORDING THAT
YOU’RE GONNA HAVE
ANYWHERE.
”
SHERYL CROW
Recording Artist,
Songwriter, Musician
“ [STUDENTS] ARE
GOING TO WALK IN
HERE, BE EXCITED
ABOUT LEARNING, AND
REALLY LEARN WHAT IT
TAKES TO MAKE A
RECORD…IF I HAD SIX
MONTHS TO DEDICATE
TO COMING TO THE
BLACKBIRD ACADEMY, I
WOULD SO BE HERE.
”
TIM MCGRAW
Recording Artist,
Songwriter, Actor
MARC ROBERGE
Recording Artist,
Musician, O.A.R.
“ COMING TO THE
BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
WOULD BE THE BEST
”
“
IF YOU ARE LOOKING
FOR A PLACE TO LEARN
ALL YOU CAN ABOUT
AUDIO, THEN THE
BLACKBIRD ACADEMY IS
THE PLACE YOU NEED
TO BE.
DECISION YOU EVER
MADE, IF YOU WANT TO
BE IN THE REAL MUSIC
BUSINESS.
”
To see the complete interviews, visit www.theblackbirdacademy.com/testimonials 23

PROGRAMS
24
STUDIO
ENGINEERING
PROGRAM
Length of Program: Six Months
Current Tuition: $23,100
WEEK 1
Intro, Listening, Recording, Careers &
Professionalism
Introduction to staff and instructors, Blackbird
Studio tour and technical orientation. Orientation
and preparation. Ears-on listening, introduction
to Pro Tools. Overview of recording
processes, hands on recording, care and handling
of gear. Overview of careers. Guest
speakers and field trip visits, in person or online.
WEEK 2
Signal Flow, Mixing Consoles, Careers &
Professionalism
Careers overview continued. Mixing console
and patching systems. In-depth examination of
signal flow and troubleshooting. Comprehensive
study of the API 1608 mixing console. Ears
On and Hot Seat challenges. Guest speakers
and visits, in person or online. Test.
WEEK 3
Studio Orientation
Studio Orientation I and II - Familiarization with
rooms, monitors, patch bay, console and outboard
gear. Microphone reports: Daily, handson
work with a wide range of tube, solid state,
dynamic, and condenser microphones. Hands
on: Session Pre-Production, signal flow, working
with consoles, OB gear, and summing systems.
WEEK 4
Tracking The Band In Studio
Building on Week 3. Concentrating on tube microphone
setup and care. Compressor & EQ reports:
Daily, hands-on work with a wide range
of tube, and solid state processors. Familiarization
with rooms, monitors, patch bay, console
and outboard gear. Setting up for overdub scenarios.
Written and patch bay exam.
WEEK 5
Microphones
Microphone types, design, uses and placement
for both studio and live recording environments.
Compare and contrast microphones
both classic and modern, and their placement.
Classroom workshops from microphone company
representative(s). Demos and workshop,
mic shootouts, testing and mic recognition.
Guest speakers and visits, in person or online,
ears-on listening, Pro Tools exercises. Test.
WEEK 6
Musical Instruments and Mic Techniques
Learn from specialists about tuning, setup and
all aspects of different instruments including
drums, acoustic, electric and bass guitars, vocals
and more. Hands on microphone and
recording techniques, mic- shootouts. Continuing
Pro Tools and Signal Flow education, ear
training and music education, testing drills.
WEEK 7
Tracking The Band In Studio
Familiarization with new room, monitors, patch
bay, console and outboard gear. Hands on:
Session Pre-Production, consultation with band,
setup, testing, recording, overdub, mixing,
Recording, mixing, mastering, and content
delivery. Introduction to documentation, charts,
and time keeping. Introduction to soldering on
days 4 & 5.
WEEK 8
Tracking The Band In Studio
Recording a live band in studio, overdubs,
edits, mixing and mastering projects from other
students. End of week listening session for
critiquing mixes. Tracking template instruction.
WEEK 9
Live Sound Facility Visit
The studio engineering students visit our live
sound facility for 3 days to learn live audio
sound basics, setup, power, FOH and monitor
mixing. The live sound students visit the studio
to learn studio session setup, recording a live
band in studio, overdubs, edits, mixing and
mastering projects from other students. End of
week listening session for critiquing mixes.
WEEK 10
Acoustics and Signal Processing
In-depth investigation of multiple aspects of
musical acoustics: time and space, frequency,
timbre, amplitude, etc. Signal processing of all
types: delays, equalization, pitch-based effects,
compression, gating, limiting and more. Continued
Pro Tools, signal flow, ear training, critical
listening, etc. Ethics of music technology. Tests.
WEEK 11
Tracking The Band In Studio
Setup, testing gear and tracking a band in the
studio I and II. Overdub and editing I and II.
Rough mixes, cleanup and archiving. Midterm
exam.
(continued, page 26)

25

PROGRAMS
26
WEEK 12
Pro Tools Drills, Acoustics and Signal
Processing
In class Pro Tools exercises and tests. Continued
investigation and experimentation of
acoustics and signal processing. Guest speakers
and visits, in person or online. Ears-on critical
listening. Test.
WEEK 13
Guest In Studio
Guest Engineer recording a live band in studio,
overdubs, edits, mixing and mastering projects
from other students. End of week listening
session for critiquing mixes.
WEEK 14
Tracking and Mixing In Studio
Mixing to Analog tape, tape editing, tape
loops. Pitch correction software. Audio
Converter calibration, bit depth, plug-ins.
Stereo mic techniques.
WEEK 15
Acoustics and Signal Processing. Hearing,
Audio Illusions/ Superstitions, Studio &
Monitor Design
Continued education in acoustical science and
audio signal processing. Study of hearing and
its preservation, auditory illusions and
superstitions. Binaural microphone
demonstration. Introduction to acoustical
design, studio design, soundproofing, etc.
Guest speakers and visits in person or online,
critical listening exercises. Test.
WEEK 16
Acoustic Design and Monitor Systems
Continued exploration of acoustical design,
studio design, soundproofing, etc. Monitor
system design: amplifiers, loudspeakers,
processing, analysis, etc. Guest speakers and
visits in person or online, critical listening, Pro
Tools exercises. Test.
WEEK 17
Signal Processing in the Studio
Recording a live band in studio, overdubs,
edits, mixing and mastering projects from other
students. Listening session for critiquing mixes.
Mix template instruction.
WEEK 18
Guest In Studio
Signal processing in the studio. Theory and use
of EQ, Dynamics, Time-based and hybrid
processors. Compare and contrast plugins with
Blackbird’s collection across various workflows,
instruments, and vocals. Analog automation
training. Near field monitor setup and mixing
techniques. Microphone shootouts on various
instruments. Automation and Compressor/EQ
recognition test.
WEEK 19
Advanced Mixing and Signal Processing,
Mastering, Manufacturing, etc. History of
Recording
In-depth training and experience in the mixing
process: philosophy, theories, tools and
techniques. Guest speakers and visits in person
or online, critical listening, mixing projects.
Comprehensive history of recording technology
and the recording industry. Project assignment.
WEEK 20
Careers, Business, Entrepreneurship and
Intellectual Property
Music business overview, business structures,
career planning, entrepreneurship, job search,
health and safety. In-depth coverage of aspects
of intellectual property law as they apply to the
music business. Training in interpersonal skills.
Guest speakers and visits in person or online,
critical listening, etc. Project assignment.
WEEK 21
Electronic Music Instruments and Production,
Sound for Picture, etc.
Investigation and practice of various methods
of electronic music production: synthesis, etc.
History of the electronic musical instrument.
Video game, film and TV audio, post- production,
etc. Discussions with professionals in the
field. Hands-on film scoring project, musique
concrete project. Guest speakers and visits in
person or online, critical listening, Pro Tools exercises,
etc.
WEEK 22
Guest In Studio
Recording a live band in studio, overdubs,
edits, mixing and mastering projects from other
students. Listening session for critiquing mixes.
Mastering training. Final exam.
WEEK 23
Capstone
Speak with multiple guest mentors from
different areas of the audio and recording
world. Wrap up, critical listening exercises,
recording projects.
WEEK 24
Tracking and Mixing In Studio
Recording a live band in studio, overdubs,
edits, mixing and mastering projects from other
students. End of week listening session for
critiquing mixes. Mastering student projects.

LIVE ENGINEERING
PROGRAM
Length of Program: Six Months
Current Tuition: $23,100
WEEK 1
Intro, Course Outline, Electricity &
Entertainment Power
Orientation and Overview of Classes, Intro to
Instructors, Tour of Live Sound Campus.
Electricity and Entertainment Power:
Introduction into DC and AC circuits, Overview
of concepts associated with electricity: Volts,
Amps, Ohms, Watts, Transformers, Reactance &
Power Factor, etc., Overview of single phase
and 3-phase power, Introduction to power
connectors: Camloks, Pin Sleeve, Twistlock
Hubble, True One & Powercon. Introduction to
multimeters and other test equipment. Labs to
include safe practices for hooking up and
metering 3-phase power, connecting power
distribution units and chain motor controllers.
WEEK 2
Cables, Connectors and Audio Electronics
Introduction to common cables and connectors
used in pro audio: Microphone Splitters, Mass
Connectors, Analog and Digital Snakes.
Introduction to Balanced and Unbalanced
audio connections. Introduction to basic audio
electronics including resistors, capacitors,
transistors, diodes and transformers.
Transformers as they relate to direct boxes and
audio splits. Introduction into Soldering. Labs
to include basic soldering techniques, building
& testing various audio cables.
WEEK 3
Microphones
Introduction to Microphones: Microphone
operating principles: Dynamic, Condenser,
Ribbon, Carbon. Microphone Polar Patterns:
Cardioid, Hyper and Super Cardioid, Omni, Bi-
Directional and Shotgun. Common Mic
Techniques, On-Axis vs. Off- Axis Coloration,
Microphone Frequency Response. Labs to
include applying microphone techniques to
various sound sources and comparing.
WEEK 4
Analog Consoles I
Analog Consoles Signal Flow, Flow Chart Symbols
Identification, the Channel Strip, Auxiliary
Sends, the Master Section, Signal Routing and
Subgrouping. Incorporating Graphic EQ’s on
Main LR Outputs, Inserting Dynamics Processing,
Incorporating Time Based Effects. Labs to
include applying analog console live signal
routing and signal flow charts.
WEEK 5
Live Stage Setups
Introduction to common practices in Live
Performance: Crew Positions: FOH, Monitors,
System Tech, Production, Stage and Tour
Managers. Stage Terminology: Stage
Directions, Stage Plots and Input List, Line
27

PROGRAMS
Check vs. Sound Check. Introduction to Analog
Consoles, Signal Flow, the Channel Strip,
Auxiliary Sends. Labs to include setting up a
monitor console and wedges, incorporating
Graphic EQ’s to the Aux outs, Basic Monitoring
and using a Cue Wedge.
WEEK 6
Sound Theory & Acoustics
Introduction into sound theory and concepts
associated with acoustics: Frequency,
Wavelength, the Speed of Sound, Equal
Loudness Contours, SPL meters, Dynamic Range,
Noise Floor. Venue Acoustics and modeling of
acoustic environments: RT60, Room Modal
Analysis, Inverse Square Law, Decibels, White
noise and Pink Noise. Introduction into Critical
Listening. Common practices for sound control in
room design.
WEEK 7
Audio Signal Processors
Building on previous lessons including Signal
Flow of Frequency based, Amplitude based &
Time-based processing. Identification of Filters,
Shelving/Sweeping/Parametric Equalizers.
Inserting, Side Chaining and use of Parallel
Dynamics based Processors. Introduction to
Multitrack Mixing and Common Mixing
Techniques. Labs to include hands on
application of Frequency based, Amplitude
based & Time-based Processors.
WEEK 8
Live Recording, DAW’s & Pro Tools
Introduction to Digital Audio and Recording of
a Live Performance. Introduction into Basic
Networking, Dante, Dante Virtual Soundcard &
Dante Controller. Introduction to Pro Tools:
System Setup, Recording, Editing, Mixing,
Applying Effects & Signal Flow. Labs to include
hands on setup, operation and mixing of a
project in Pro Tools.
WEEK 9
Studio Visit
The live sound students visit the studio for 3
days to learn recording, overdubs, edits,
mixing, and mastering of a live band in a studio
setting. End of week listening session for
critiquing mixes. The studio engineering
students visit the live facility to learn live audio
sound basics, setup, power, FOH, and monitor
mixing.
WEEK 10
Digital Consoles I and Mixing Techniques I
Introduction to Digital Consoles: Patching and
I/O, Digital Connectivity, Latency, On-Board
Signal Processing, Saving, Copying & Pasting
Presets, Snapshots and Scenes, Offline Editors.
Consoles focused on this week are the Midas
M32, Soundcraft Si Performer, Soundcraft Vi1
as well as others depending on availability. Labs
to include hands on exercises based on signal
flow and mix techniques.
WEEK 11
Loudspeakers, Crossovers & Amplifiers
Introduction to Loudspeakers, Crossovers &
Amplifiers. Topics to include Moving Coil
Drivers, Compression Drivers and Horns,
Enclosure Types, Construction & Design,
Dispersion Patterns, Active and Passive
Crossovers. Amplifier Terminology: Power
Rating, Class, Impedance, Modes of Operation
(Stereo, Parallel, Bridged Mono). Discussion on
common practices regarding connectivity of
modern sound systems.
WEEK 12
Mid Term Week
Comprehensive review of material covered in
the previous 11 weeks in preparation for the
mid-term exam. Practice for the mid-term
practical exam.
WEEK 13
Sound System Design, Connections &
Optimization
Review of Loudspeakers, Design &
Construction, Horn Types, Multiple Point
Sources, Comb Filtering, setting up a 2-Way
System, Crossover Points, Filter Topology
(Butterworth, Bessel, Linkwitz-Riley), Setting up
a 3-Way or 4-Way System, Aux Fed Sub
Systems, Sub Arrays, System Processors. Labs
to include connecting and setting up P.A.
System, configuring System Processors, and
Sub Arrays.
WEEK 14
Permanent Installs
Fixed Audio System Designs for use in a Venue
(Theaters, Schools, Bars, Churches, etc.), Audio
Processing for Venues, Power Sequencing,
Common Design Practices (Gear, Rigging,
Remote Access), 70V Speaker Systems (Theory,
Connectivity, Deployment using Software such
as Ease Address), Designing a Sound System
with a budget and deadline.
WEEK 15
System Analyzers & Troubleshooting
Introduction to System Analyzers &
Troubleshooting Methods, Time Alignment,
System Tuning Methods.
28

WEEK 16
Line Arrays & Rigging
Line Array History and Theory, Popular
Configurations, Line Array Principles (Array
Length, Driver Separation, Inverse Square Law),
Array Configurations (Straight Line, Constant
Splay, Progressive Splay), Rigging Gear (Aircraft
Cable, Shackles, Spansets, Pear Rings), Rigging
Points (Dead Hangs, Bridle Hangs)
Labs to include rigging overview, flying and
configuring a line array system.
WEEK 17
Analog Consoles II
Large Format Analog Consoles, Advanced
Analog Signal Flow Concepts, VCAs & Matrices,
Mute Groups, Outboard Signal Processing
(including Frequency, Amplitude & Time-Based
Processing), Documenting Outboard Gear, Mixing
Tip & Tricks, Recording a Live Mix using Pro Tools.
WEEK 18
RF & IEMs
RF Theory, FFC Rules & Regulations, Types of
Modulation, RF Frequency Bands, RF Signal Flow,
Wireless Transmitters, Non-diversity, Diversity &
True Diversity Receivers, Networking Wireless
Devices. Wireless Antennas: Antenna Polar
Patterns, Cabling and Connections, Antenna
Splitters and Combiners, Antenna Deployment.
Labs to include connecting wireless devices,
controlling and monitoring remotely over network
connection.
WEEK 19
Advanced Monitor Setups
Stage Monitor Mix Approaches, Wiring and
Deployment of Stage Monitoring, Monitor Signal
Flow, Wedge Configurations (Mono, Stereo),
Optimizing Wedges for gain before feedback,
IEM Mixing, Side Fills, Side Hangs,
Communication Etiquette with Artist,
Troubleshooting. Labs to include wiring and
deploying several monitor configurations and
creating a monitor mix.
WEEK 20
Digital Audio Theory & Networking
Digital Audio Theory, Analog to Digital
Converters, Digital to Analog Converters, Sample
Rate, Bit Depth, Word Clocking, Digital Audio
Protocols, Linear Time Code, Computer
Networking (IP addresses, Subnet Mask,
Gateways, MAC Addresses, Network Switches),
Audio Over Ethernet (Dante, AVB, AES50), MADI,
AES/EBU. Labs to include connecting and
networking various audio gear.
WEEK 21
Tour Production and Music Business
Production, Stage and Tour Management, Band &
Artist Management, Riders (Tech, Backline,
Hospitality) Union Hands, Venue Management,
Taxes, being your own boss, Sole Proprietorships,
DBAs & LLC. Resumes, Business Cards, Touring
Etiquette, Bus & Tour Safety.
WEEK 22
Backline and Stage Management
Instrument Setup & Maintenance, Anatomy of a
Guitar (Body & Neck, Bridge, Saddle & Nut,
Tuners, etc.), Stringing Instruments, Truss Rod
Adjustments, Tuning, Intonation & Action, Effects
Pedals Signal Flow, Effects Loops, Amplifier
Demos & Mic Techniques, setting up a Drum kit,
Changing Drumheads, Drum Hardware.
WEEK 23
Digital Consoles II and Mixing Techniques II
Advanced Digital Signal Flow Concepts, Large
Format Digital Consoles, Advanced Signal
Routing (Matrix Mixers, Auxiliary Sends,
Subgrouping, DCA’s, Control Groups, Snapshot
Automation), Offline Editors.
WEEK 24
Recap and Final Exams
29

WHAT
THE
STUDENTS
SAY
ABOUT
THE
BLACKBIRD
ACADEMY
“
YOU CAN DEFINITELY
TELL EVERYONE
WORKING HERE HAS
SUCH A STRONG
PASSION FOR WHAT
THEY DO.
”
“ I’VE LEARNED
MORE HERE IN 3
DAYS, THAN I HAVE
PROBABLY LEARNED
IN 5 YEARS ONLINE.
”
“ THIS HAS BEEN AN
EXPERIENCE OF A
LIFETIME.
”
“
IT’S PRETTY INCREDIBLE
TO REALIZE THAT THIS
CAN BE HOW YOU MAKE
A LIVING…I THOUGHT IT
WOULD JUST BE A
HOBBY.
”
CHECK OUT
OUR ALUMNI
TESTIMONIALS AT:
bit.ly/BBAalums
30

“Attitude is 99% of the gig.”
– John McBride
Founder/President/Institutional Director

a new standard of excellence in audio education
2806 Azalea Place Nashville, Tennessee 37204 615.385.2423 www.theblackbirdacademy.com